Cannabis drinks are quickly becoming a fun alternative to beer, alcoholic seltzers, and cocktails. Cannabis enthusiasts the world over are abuzz about cannabis-infused drinks that deliver sensory effects without any of the unwanted side effects of alcohol. Neither liquid THC drinks nor CBD drinks will give you a hangover, and if you choose THC-infused drinks, the light buzz is easily manageable by spacing out your sips.
Still, while cannabis drinks can be a wonderful way to enhance your sensory experience, they are a relatively new addition to the world of cannabis products. Read on to learn some important information about these popular beverages.
What Are Cannabis Drinks?
Cannabis drinks are beverages that are infused with cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant. The most common cannabinoid used in cannabis drinks is THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis), although many incorporate CBD as well. These active compounds can produce sensory and therapeutic effects in those who consume them.
Cannabis-infused drinks offer an alternative method of consumption distinct from traditional smoking or edibles. Their appeal stems from the ability to offer a more controlled and potentially more enjoyable experience, with a range of flavors and strengths to cater to different preferences.
What Types of Cannabis Drinks Are Out There?
Cannabis drinks come in many of the same forms as traditional alcoholic beverages. Some of the other cannabis drinks taste and feel like non-alcoholic beverages.
One of the most popular formats for drinking cannabis is carbonated drinks. Many are similar to seltzers and sparkling waters in terms of texture and fizziness, while others can be compared to energy drinks. Anyone looking for a refreshing cannabis experience can crack open cans of carbonated liquid THC drinks.
Cocktail-inspired beverages mimic the flavor and social experience of mixed drinks but without the alcohol. Margarita, old-fashioned, and lemonade are popular flavors.
You can also find THC-infused shots that you can drink alone or mix into cocktails and drinks. These are popular because they are so easy to dose. THC-infused syrups are also great for making mocktails or sweet treats.
How Long Do I Have to Wait For Cannabis Drinks to Take Effect?
You can generally expect to wait about 30 minutes after consuming a cannabis drink to feel the effects of THC, although cannabis edibles can take up to two hours to take effect. Cannabis drinks are felt sooner than edibles because liquids generally move through the digestive system more quickly than solid foods. This means that the THC in cannabis drinks reaches the small intestine faster, where it can be absorbed into the bloodstream.
Cannabis drinks can even begin absorption in the mouth and stomach. When you drink a cannabis beverage, some of the THC may be absorbed through the tissues in your mouth (sublingual absorption), which allows THC to enter your bloodstream more quickly.
Your metabolism, the specific product, whether you’ve eaten, and how much can affect how long it takes for you to feel the effects of cannabis drinks.
Do Cannabis Drinks Need to Be Refrigerated?
Like other beverages, cannabis drinks generally need to be refrigerated while in storage and after opening. Different products will have their own unique perishability characteristics, but refrigeration can help any cannabis drink you purchase to maintain its freshness and potency. Refrigeration could even be a safety issue for certain products. Follow the specific storage instructions provided by the manufacturer.
How Are Cannabis Drinks Made?
The process of making cannabis drinks is quite complex and fascinating. The manufacturer must first extract and activate THC and CBD from cannabis flower.
The cannabinoids are typically extracted using butane, propane, or carbon dioxide to create a cannabis concentrate. This concentrate is distilled to remove impurities and unwanted compounds to create a potent oil called distillate. Emulsification techniques allow for even distribution of the cannabinoids throughout the liquid base, which could be water, tea, juice, or another suitable liquid.
Flavorings can be added to enhance taste before the final product is tested. Some products reduce THC to nanoscale particles, allowing THC to be more efficiently absorbed by the body and at a faster rate than traditional edibles.
What Are Delta-9 Cannabis Drinks?
Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis, responsible for the “high” people experience after consuming marijuana. While Delta-9 is naturally occurring in both marijuana and hemp, the Delta-9 in cannabis drinks comes from hemp-derived THC to comply with legal regulations.
It’s important to note that while Delta-8 THC is a chemically similar cannabinoid that also produces a high, Delta-9 remains the most sought-after option due to its potency and similarity to the THC traditionally found in marijuana. In Illinois, the Delta-9 cannabis drink market offers a variety of options, including popular brands like Wynk, Choom, and Gymweed, which deliver both the desired effects and diverse flavor profiles.
Is the Concept of Drinking Cannabis New?
Cannabis drinks are not a new concept. Different cultures have infused drinks with cannabis for religious, medicinal, and recreational reasons. One notable example is Bhang, a traditional cannabis-infused beverage steeped in ancient Indian heritage. The drink made from cannabis leaves, milk, nuts, and aromatic spices is the earliest known cannabis drink on record. The drink is used for ceremonial and social occasions.
How Long Do Cannabis Drinks Last Once Opened?
A cannabis drink with products that could easily spoil should be immediately refrigerated, consumed, or tossed soon after opening. Most cannabis drinks could last a few days or longer. Your best bet for avoiding spoiling the drink is to refrigerate the drink and seal it if it comes in a resealable container.
How Do Cannabis Drinks Make You Feel?
Everyone reacts differently to THC, but the dosage is an important factor that determines how you feel after consuming cannabis drinks. Common feelings include euphoria, relaxation, and other pleasurable feelings. Some people feel that they are more creative when they consume cannabis-infused drinks. Keep in mind that if you consume cannabis drinks with a blend of different cannabinoids, like CBD, CBN, and THC, the drink can deliver unique highs, additional relaxation, and more.
What Is the Best Dose For Cannabis Drinks?
What counts as one “serving” of THC for one person may be very different for another. Individual traits like body weight, metabolism, and tolerance of cannabinoids can mean that one drink leaves one person buzzed while another person may require two or more for the same effects.
If you are new to cannabis-infused drinks, start with what would widely be considered a low dose of around 2 or 2.5 mg. Remember that CBD will not get you high like THC, so pay more attention to the dosage disclosure for THC. The dose will be spread across the entirety of the 8 oz drink. While there is no standard dosage per product, most products contain anywhere between 2 and 10 mg, so you may need to stop at half a can to achieve the lowest dose.
After drinking 2 mg, wait a full hour to ensure that you experience the full effects. If you feel pleasurably high but not impaired, you may have found your ideal dosage. For other people, the full can of 4 mg may be served as a standard dose. Consider sharing a can with a friend while you determine your ideal dose.
Can Cannabis Drinks Upset My Stomach?
Cannabis drinks are primarily made from water and natural ingredients, including cannabinoids. If you’re concerned about an upset stomach, you may want to try several brands to find the right one that works best for you. Some individuals may have a sensitivity or intolerance to certain ingredients used in cannabis drinks, such as sweeteners or flavorings.
Another way someone may have an unpleasant experience with cannabis is if they consume too much. This can lead to nausea and other undesirable effects. The best way to avoid having a bad experience is to start slowly with a low-dose drink, wait an hour or more, and evaluate how you feel.
Are There Advantages to Drinking Over Smoking?
If you traditionally smoke cannabis or eat edibles, you may find that drinking cannabis drinks has many benefits. Compared to edibles, cannabis-infused drinks deliver a euphoric high much sooner. Many seltzers are also sugar-free and have low or zero calories.
Drinking is also a common way to socialize. If you are at a bar or party where your friends are drinking alcohol but you prefer not to, having a cannabis drink on hand can help you blend in socially.
Although smoking cannabis is not as dangerous as tobacco, any form of smoking potentially carries health risks. If you are looking for a healthier way to consume cannabis, consider trying one of the many cannabis drinks on the market.
Are Cannabis Drinks Legal in All States?
Cannabis drinks with THC are not legal in every state, although some states that have legalized hemp production are seeing hemp-derived CBD drinks hit the market. The legality of cannabis drinks depends on local laws and regulations.
In some places, cannabis drinks are legal for recreational or medicinal use, while in others, they may be restricted or prohibited. In states where recreational cannabis use is legalized, including Illinois, there is a wide range of cannabis drinks available.
Will I Get Too High Off Cannabis Drinks?
It is possible that you can feel too high after consuming any cannabis product, which is why it is recommended that anyone who has not tried a cannabis-infused drink should start slow. CBD will not get you high, so doses of CBD are of less concern. However, neither THC nor CBD cannabis drinks can cause overdose.
Remember that it can take 30 minutes or longer to feel the effects of a cannabis drink, so give yourself 45 minutes to an hour before consuming another drink. That way, you can be sure that you are experiencing the full effects of the first drink. By being patient and only consuming low doses of THC at a time, you can greatly reduce the chances that you get too high off cannabis.
Are Cannabis Drinks Safe?
When produced by reputable manufacturers and consumed responsibly, cannabis drinks are generally considered safe for adults. It’s important to follow dosage recommendations, be aware of local laws, and store them securely away from children and pets.
At Ivy Hall, we carefully vet all of our products. We only work with manufacturers and companies that fully disclose their products’ contents. Many of the companies we work with independently test their products and publish the lab results for anyone to see.
Can I Mix Cannabis Drinks With Alcohol?
Mixing alcohol and cannabis can significantly magnify the intoxicating effects of both substances, leading to heightened impairment and increased risk of adverse effects. Therefore, it is generally not recommended to mix cannabis drinks with alcohol. The products we sell are alcohol-free to ensure a safer consumption experience.
Blending alcohol and THC can lead to greater impairment, including intensified dizziness, nausea, and loss of coordination, among other side effects. If you do choose to mix the two, it is essential to proceed with caution and be mindful of your limits to avoid potentially dangerous outcomes.
Do Cannabis Drinks Have Calories?
Yes, like other beverages, cannabis drinks can contain calories. The number of calories will vary depending on the ingredients used, such as sugars, flavorings, and other additives. Check the nutrition label for specific information.
Many seltzers are low in calories or calorie-free. We work with manufacturers who use safe or all-natural products. Unlike many other types of commercial drinks, you’re unlikely to find ingredients like high fructose corn syrup, artificial ingredients, or artificial colors.
Cannabis drinks often have considerably fewer calories than alcoholic drinks. For example, beers can have hundreds of calories per can because of the high caloric content of malt and grains. By volume, liquor is high in calories as well.
By cutting back on alcoholic drinks and replacing them with low-calorie cannabis drinks, you can reduce your daily consumption of calories considerably.
Can Anyone Use Cannabis Products?
Cannabis drinks may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and those taking specific medications should consult a healthcare professional before consuming cannabis products.
For healthy adults over 21 in states where they can legally purchase these products, cannabis drinks are incredibly safe. Alcoholic beverages can lead to bloating, weight gain, and even addiction, while cannabis products are safe when used as directed. Some people may even find health benefits from using THC drinks and similar products.
Are Cannabis Drinks Suitable for Vegan or Gluten-Free Diets?
Many cannabis drinks are formulated to be suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets, but it’s important to check the product label to ensure it meets your dietary requirements. Ingredients and manufacturing processes can vary between brands.
The products we sell at Ivy Hall prominently display product descriptions and disclosures that usually clarify whether a product is vegan-friendly and safe for people with gluten intolerances. Our online store should contain that information as well.
Do All Cannabis Drinks Have THC in Them?
Many cannabis drinks have THC in them because the cannabinoid delivers a buzz that can replace the pleasurable effects of alcohol. Two common forms of THC are used in cannabis drinks: Delta-9 and Delta-8. Both will lead to a mild “high,” although Delta-8 is often described as having less intoxicating effects.
There are also drinks on the market that only contain CBD. These drinks could be helpful for people who want the medicinal benefits of CBD without any psychoactive effects. Many THC drinks also contain CBD. A 1:1 ratio of CBD and THC is considered by many to be the “golden ratio,” which is the ideal ratio of the two cannabinoids to provide pleasant sensory effects and relaxation.
Can Cannabis Drinks Be Mixed With Other Beverages?
Yes, cannabis drinks can often be mixed with other non-alcoholic beverages like juice, soda, or tonic water to customize flavors and adjust potency to personal preference. There are fun recipes online for mixing seltzer cannabis drinks into unique cocktails. For example, products like Artet Aperitif are ideal for blending with other drinks. The Aperitif functions like an alcohol-free liquor and has unique flavors that can mimic classic cocktails or newer mixed drink recipes., which you can find on Artet’s website.
Do Cannabis Drinks Have a Cannabis Flavor?
The taste of cannabis drinks can vary depending on the formulation and ingredients used. Some may have a noticeable cannabis flavor, while others may be masked by flavors and sweeteners added during production.
If you haven’t had a cannabis-infused drink in a while, consider giving it another try. Some of the earlier products were less adept at covering up the dank profile of cannabis. New processes for infusing THC have allowed for more flavorful drink products that do not have a pungent taste or flavor.
Do Cannabis Drinks Have Health Benefits?
Cannabis drinks containing CBD may offer potential health benefits for conditions like pain, inflammation, anxiety, and seizures. CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates pain, mood, and other functions.
Before taking any product for medical purposes, consult with a medical professional. They may recommend cannabis products for anxiety and stress. Some people find that natural plant-based products offer a safer alternative to prescription pills.
Are Cannabis Drinks Age-Restricted?
Yes, cannabis drinks are subject to age restrictions similar to other cannabis products. These restrictions are in place to regulate access and consumption, aiming to prevent underage individuals from using cannabis. Here in Illinois, the legal age to purchase cannabis products is 21.
The legal age requirement for purchasing cannabis drinks varies depending on local laws and regulations. In many jurisdictions, the minimum age is set at either 18 or 21. Consumers should be aware of age restrictions when purchasing and consuming cannabis drinks to comply with the law and ensure responsible use. Retailers and dispensaries are typically required to verify the age of customers through identification checks to prevent underage sales.
What Cannabis Drinks Does Ivy Hall Offer?
At Ivy Hall, our team has reviewed, sampled, and compared popular cannabis-infused drinks to find the ideal products for cannabis aficionados. Dr. Quencher has 100 mg of THC and 50 mg of caffeine for a potent boost and buzz. Made with cane sugar and no artificial colors, this soft drink is a lightly sweet delight. CQ Cola has a classic cola taste and 10 mg of THC.
If you’re looking for a cocktail-like experience, Artet Aperitif is lightly dosed to serve as a liquor substitute for cocktails. You can imbibe this lovely cannabis aperitif on the rocks or infuse it in a cocktail. Artet was inspired by the Italian tradition of aperitivo hour.
What Are the Most Popular Drinks Offered By Ivy Hall?
Our team members love our hand-selected cannabis drink options. Our favorites include:
- The Lemon Chamomile, a lovely aperitif with hints of juniper and lime. The easy-to-sip drink delivers 20 milligrams of THC and 5 milligrams of CBD.
- Another Artet product we love is the Mango Ginger Spritz, which has the sweetness of mango and the subtle bite of ginger.
- We’re also huge fans of Surp Cafe’s French Vanilla syrup, which you can mix with almost anything.
Explore Ivy Hall’s Cannabis Drink Options
If you have not explored the diverse and fun world of cannabis drinks, we encourage you to do so. Start with a low-dose drink, and remember to wait a full hour before your second drink. Once you are familiar with how the dosage works for drinks, you can substitute THC for alcohol for a fun buzz that won’t leave you hung over the next day.
If you have further questions about cannabis drink options, our friendly staff is always here to help! Shop online or visit one of our neighborhood dispensaries to find the ideal THC drink for you. We’re continually adding new drink options to our online dispensary store menus, so be sure to check back regularly to see what’s new at your favorite sensory dispensary!
Sources:
- National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2020). Ivy Hall. In NCBI Bookshelf. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563174/
- Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. (n.d.). Cannabis FAQs. Retrieved from https://cannabis.illinois.gov/about/faqs.html
